Families gathered beneath the glow of twinkling lights Friday evening as the Greater Northern Lehigh Chamber of Commerce held its ninth annual tree lighting — this year at its new, more spacious home at the Slatington Trailhead on Main Street.

With Mickey and Minnie Mouse looking on, Chamber representative Caitlin Hamlin-Myers welcomed the crowd.

“I am so happy to be here to share this event with the community,” she said, standing before five brightly decorated evergreens.

Four of the trees were dedicated to community members who had shown remarkable support over the years: Walter Niedermeyer, Kenneth Rabenold, Ted Kistler Sr., and Peter Papay.

The center tree, she added, was dedicated to the entire community.

Hamlin-Myers also recognized Mayor Jeralyn Schoch, Lexi Merkel from Congressman Mackenzie’s office, Rep. Zack Mako, and an extensive list of Chamber board members and community partners.

She thanked supporters whose generosity made the celebration possible, including Keystone Technology LLC, The Neffs National Bank, A Boyer Hardware, Rentschler Auto, The Venture Group, Bob and Nancy Treskot, and funding from the Lehigh County Tourism Grant from Whitehall.

She also acknowledged Chamber staff Emily Sewilo, Jessica O’Donnell-Gower, and Kylie Adams-Weiss.

As lights flickered on and the crowd cheered, excitement grew with the sound of sirens approaching. Santa arrived aboard a Slatington Fire Department truck, waving to children bundled in hats and mittens.

Northern Valley Ambulance stood by to assist as the festivities continued.

One of the first to greet Santa at the middle tree was 7-year-old Charlotte Serfass from Peters Elementary, who asked for Legos this Christmas.

Chamber member Nancy Treskot shared that starting next year, the middle tree will feature handmade ornaments created by local students. “So please watch for directions during the year,” she told families.

The new location gave residents plenty of room to mingle and enjoy the holiday cheer.

Guests warmed up with hot cocoa and hot dogs, browsed a basket raffle, and listened to carols sung by Northern Lehigh elementary students. Rhythm & Sole Dance Center performed a festive routine, and the Slatington Lions Club sold Christmas trees as part of its seasonal fundraiser.